Whenever you've played bingo you've enjoyed it, right? You've probably seen those Gala bingo ads crop up on TV from time to time but when was the last time you went? Normally the preserve of the elderly or those with a bit of a gambling habit, the classic game is enjoying a much overdue revival amongst east end hipsters thanks to Rebel Bingo.
According to the gospel laid out by founders Freddie and James, devout fans have been staging secret underground bingo sessions (and providing elaborate covers for their meetings) since Cromwell's famous bingo ban of 1647. These subversive nights combine music, entertainment, and a new set of rules that include amongst others: ‘no boring people’, ‘no wankers’ and ‘no work suits’.
Known for their fun and anarchic atmosphere, the gatherings include costumed callers providing impromptu stage shows and guests are encouraged to draw on each other. Music this Friday will be provided by the Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw and Men in Masks.
Apart from enjoying the night itself, if luck’s on your side you’ll get to take home some rather random prizes selected from www.iwantoneofthose.com, including an electric motorbike. Although tickets are available from the website for £7, you can get them for £5 using the secret code, which is: (shhh) FURIOUS.
So it seems that Friday night is 41 (time for fun) - where you can 35 (jump and jive) while playing along. Sorry. We couldn’t resist.
By Yasmin Kaye
The Rebel Bingo World Championships, Friday 24th July 8pm - 2am. Venue: a secret warehouse near Old Street tube (the location will be revealed in secret nearer the time). £7 in advance from www.rebelbingo.com (£5 with the secret code).
